Jardiance works to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes by inhibiting a protein that reabsorbs glucose from the kidney. This allows more glucose to be eliminated from the body through urine, thus helping to reduce risks such as heart attack and stroke. This medication also helps reduce blood pressure by lowering the amount of fluid in the body. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
It is common to experience mild side effects from taking this drug, including increased urination and yeast infections. If these side effects are bothersome, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about ways to manage them.
A serious but rare side effect of this drug is diabetic ketoacidosis. This occurs when there is a buildup of ketones (chemicals produced by the liver when fat is broken down) in the blood and urine. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis include vomiting, stomach pain, fatigue, and trouble breathing.
You should avoid excessive alcohol intake while taking this medication, as it can increase the risk of developing ketoacidosis. You should also tell your doctor if you have any liver or kidney problems before taking this medicine. You should also mention any other medications or supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines and vitamins. Jardiance may interact with some of these and can cause more serious side effects. Your doctor can help you avoid interactions by prescribing a different medication if necessary.